Volume 6, Issue 6 — June 30, 2015
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Aeiforia Technos
- LEGO My Plastic!
Raymond Kent : Managing Principal, Sustainable Technologies Group Editorial
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LEGO My Plastic!
By Raymond Kent Managing Principal, Sustainable Technologies Group
The 2015 InfoComm Show just wrapped up in Orlando, Fla. As usual, it is a sea of products from around the world showcasing the latest and greatest from the audiovisual and communications manufacturing sector. Many materials go into the construction of some truly significant transformative technology that will certainly bring benefit to the end users. Each of these products utilizes a myriad of different materials to do what they do — everything from steel, aluminum, copper, PVC, gold and lots and lots of plastic.
There are plastic knobs, bezels, stands, buttons and the like. Each one of these may or may not be able to be recycled at the end of the gear’s life. Plastics are not a bad thing in terms of their usefulness as they play a vital role in almost every aspect of our lives. With this proliferation in the manufacturing stream there needs to be a demand for proper end of life management of this resource and an investigation into alternative ways of creating the plastics we need other than by the energy intensive petroleum based current standard.
To put this in perspective, 33 million tons of plastic waste was generated in 2013 with 12 million tons of it being durable goods such as the products on the show floor at InfoComm. Only 9 percent of the total plastic waste was recovered and recycled/upcycled. Within this there are two basic types of plastics categories: thermosets and thermoplastics. Thermoset plastics solidify irreversibly when heated and are often most commonly found in the ICT industry due to strength and durability. Thermoplastics can be reheated and reused and offer the ability to be more flexible in shaped and molded objects. Handling the recovery and recycling of these plastics is tricky business. Currently there are about 1800 US businesses that deal with mainstream waste (MSW) post consumer plastic in which these facilities grind, clean, and sort the plastics by type and sometimes color for use in reprocessing for new products. One major challenge in the is that thermoset plastics are often difficult to resue and often can’t be reused for the same object. For example, plastic buttons made from thermoset plastics are often difficult if not impossible to reuse in making the same buttons. This is different than other materials used in the technology seen at InfoComm such as glass and aluminum which are infinitely reusable for the same purpose.
Of the plastics in the technology we use that is not recycled in the US, it is often shipped overseas to third world countries that have less than stellar records of environmentally friendly ways of dealing with materials. Often the plastics are seen as a low cost recovery material and are either burned or thrown into trash dumps or even make their way into the water stream which has contributed to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and focus is paid to recovering the metals and electronic components that can recover higher premiums.
Above and beyond the current stream of plastics use is how the material is made in the first place. The majority of plastics are petroleum based and energy intensive. The raw materials are typically fossil based crude oil and natural gas (although soy, corn, and hemp are also used) and through a refining process called cracking, the hydrocarbons are broken down using extreme heat or chemicals into monomers. These monomers are then combined in different was to create polymers with specific characteristics. These monomers need coaxing to join together so they go into another chemical process such as polymerization or polycondensation to create the resin for the specific product. All of this is energy intensive through the entire chain — extraction of raw materials through processing and uses many known carcinogenetic chemicals to make the process work. Even the plant based materials require a significant amount of resources to plant, grow, and harvest before being able to be turned into plastics.
So why this topic? The last day I was in Orlando, before heading back north, I went to LEGOLAND where I was surrounded by not only the tiny bricks we all grew up playing with (and if you have children like I do stepped in the dark), but also a plethora of technology to support the exhibits, rides and attractions including audio systems, show control, lighting and automation — all of which were inundated with plastic in some way shape or form.
Why is this relevant? LEGO is going green. Recently the toy company announced its plan to invest heavily in making its product and packaging better for the environment. The company produced over 60 billion pieces last year alone. The company is already known for its commitment to the environment already having invested heavily in solar and wind power for its facilities as well as reducing the packaging size. Several key factors are being considered including the materials and processing of those materials from raw to finished product with a whole cradle-to-cradle approach. The company recently hired some serious brain power in materials science with the charge to develop significant changes in the way their product is made without compromising the core values of the product or company. These new bricks will be “backwards compatible” with legacy bricks. Additionally, LEGO partnered with the World Wildlife Federation to help them develop their sustainability plan and they severed a 50-year relationship with Shell Oil after much came to light about Shell’s practices in oil drilling in the Arctic.
Unlike many of the products shown at InfoComm, Legos are seen as a generational product in that they tend to be handed down from generation to generation so making their way into the waste stream is minimized unlike the technology on the show floor which has a definite end-of-life timeline… However, given that their product has to take the abuse of children (young and old alike) who can be pretty rough on the pieces while maintaining the integrity of the product I am encouraged to see the fruits of the new groups endeavor. What I am most interested in is what solutions they come up with for their plastics and can that translate into the technology solutions of the ICT industry. Will it be beneficial in terms of helping to reduce the waste stream on one of the more difficult parts of electronics to recycle? Will it help reduce the expense of recycling plastics as the process may become more efficient or less intensive? The project with LEGO is just getting started and is expected to finish at the end of 2016. We should all keep our eye on it as the potential carbon-footprint reducing effects to our industry could be massive. Leave a Comment
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InfoComm 2015 Report: Workspaces For Tomorrow Session
By David Danto Director Emerging Technologies, IMCCA
Change in business and culture is happening at the fastest pace ever. It is all around us, with new processes not just improving the old ones but completely replacing them. Digital downloads replaced record / CD stores, search engines replaced phone books, apps are quickly replacing the traditional taxi and hotel industries, and the way we work and collaborate is no exception.
That was the overriding theme of the Workspaces for Tomorrow session on Tuesday at InfoComm 2015. The way we work has changed. Work is not where you go but what you do.
Workspaces for tomorrow need to be developed without any biases that favor an in-office employee. Remote workers, home workers, and any participants not present need the ability to participate, share content and be connected as well as anyone in a room. The offices themselves need to be designed to support multiple workstyles — not just the 1980’s style desk worker. Offices themselves are beginning to shrink — not just with desks and people getting “densified,” but with footprints reducing in favor of employees who don’t need to be there every day any more.
These changes are requiring cultural adaptation — with supervisors learning to manage using collaboration tools and social media tools — and with organizations slowly dropping the stigmas that have existed around remote working.
The panel and I (as the moderator) — representing Kramer, Pexip, Smart, AVI-SPL, Acano and Dimension Data — came to the startling realization that “making everything work together” is no longer a mountain to climb. There are significant examples of organizations that can easily support anytime, anywhere, any device collaboration. What was identified as the next big barrier is making the whole process simple. This referred both to how we deploy and then interface with the technology. It has to be as easy to use as an elevator or an iPhone. Complex control systems are a thing of the past — described to be like “the old tree that is already dead even though the trunk is still standing.” Anything that requires training sessions or leave-behind instructions just won’t fly anymore. We collaborate differently now.
It was also discussed that the chokehold that architects and AV design consultants have on the early stages of the process has to be broken. If we keep doing the same things — designing the same facilities as we have before – we will never give the champions of workspaces for tomorrow an opportunity to influence the process early enough to make a difference.
This blog was reprinted with permission from David Danto and originally appeared here. Leave a Comment
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Nureva Announces the Span Ideation System for Business – Collaboration, BYOD and Panoramic Projection In One Nureva just announced its first business product, the Nureva Span ideation system. Ideal for design, creative processes and business-process re-engineering, the Span ideation system combines a panoramic projector with a digital canvas to create an expansive 4′ by 40′ with 10′ visible (1.2×12.2 meters with 3.05 meters visible) team workspace. Ideation participants create their ideas on their personal devices, either a computer or tablet, and share them on the team workspace in the cloud. The system draws upon familiar, simple and flexible tools already widely used in paper-based ideation including sticky notes, images, pages and flip charts.
The digital canvas retains all of the flexibility that paper-based systems offer (e.g., large workspaces with persistent information) while overcoming many of the challenges (e.g., the awkwardness of physically moving large numbers of sticky notes, sticky notes that fall off the wall, inclusion of remote participants in the process, the need for transcription, and storage and retention of the work). The Span ideation system allows multiple teams to use a collaboration room that previously may have been dedicated to a single team for months.
The canvas offers 40′ (12.2 m) of digital space, with 10′ (3.05 m) visible on the panoramic display that can be panned horizontally. Users contribute content in the form of notes, pages, folios and images and organize content by moving and grouping.
Software is accessible on Chrome browsers and as apps on iOS and Android tablets to enable users to create digital artifacts and post them to the shared canvas.
Multiple types of digital artifacts can be created on a personal device or at the canvas:
- Note — This digital 3″ x 5″ (7.6×12.7 cm) sticky note allows users to enter up to three lines of text.
- Page — This digital 8.5″ x 11″ (21.6×27.9 cm) page for sketching and wire-framing comes with three different ink colors, a highlighter and an eraser.
- Folio — This large digital 32″ x 42″ (81.3×106.7 cm) flip chart for capturing notes, decisions and action items comes with three different ink colors, a highlighter and an eraser. One folio can contain multiple pages.
- Image — Users can post images to the canvas, then manipulate them panoramic projector.
The system’s HD panoramic projector features 3,000 lumens on an ultra-wide 130″ (330.2 cm) diagonal display in a 16:6 aspect ratio. A contrast ratio of 1,800:1 provides a consistent, high-performance color and rich viewing experience. Solid-state illumination (SSI) means instant-on/off and delivers the same useful life of 25,000 hours as most flat-panel displays. Touch and pen interactivity are provided by a touch module, supporting simultaneous multi-user and multi-touch activities.
The software has an annual subscription of $239 for a single-user license. The hardware (including the panoramic projector, projector wall mount, remote control, 2 pens and touch module) has a list of $9,999. All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Sony Launches Three New Business ProjectorsSony is adding three new models to its line of professional projectors aimed at both the corporate and education markets. The new compact (well, relatively) projectors include the VPL-EW348, VPL-EW345 and VPL-EX345 models. Each model is specified at 4,200 lumens and uses a new BrightEra 3LCD panel (WXGA 0.75”, XGA 0.63” size).
The VPL-EW348 model has a built-in HDBaseT interface 5Play including video, audio, control and IP over a single Cat5e/6 cable for up to 328 feet (100m). Each model also has two HDMI ports for expanded connectivity with digital devices in the professional A/V market space.
The new models are designed to extend lamp life and reduce total cost of operations, delivering optimum energy efficiency and low power consumption. Lamp life can be extended to up to approximately 10,000 hours, depending on the lamp mode selected. Other energy efficient functions include Sony’s auto lamp dimming function, where the projector intelligently detects if it is left powered on with a static signal being fed. When a static signal is detected, the lamp can be dimmed to a specified percent of original brightness after certain time intervals set by the user.
Through the network presentation and remote control functions, a tablet or smartphone can control the projectors. Each model has a 16W speaker and is designed for silent operation, with a low of 29dB and high of 35dB. An input label function helps users clearly organize connected equipment.
The following is planned availability for the new models:
- VPL-EW348 (WXGA with HDBaseT), January 2016
- VPL-EW345 (WXGA), October 2015
- VPL-EX345 (XGA), September 2015
All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Announces Select DTP Transmitters, Signal Processors and Presentation Switchers are HDBaseT CertifiedExtron has announced that select DTP products are now HDBaseT certified. The products include DTP T HWP 4K D, DTP T EU, and DTP T MK wallplate transmitters; DTP T FB floor box transmitters; Annotator 300 annotation processor; DTP CrossPoint 84 scaling presentation matrix switchers; IN1604 DTP four input scaler; and IN1608 HDBT scaling presentation switchers. They send video with embedded audio, and bidirectional RS232 and IR signals up to 230 feet (70 meters) or 330 feet (100 meters) over a shielded CATx cable. The DTP wallplate transmitters and DTP CrossPoint 84 support 4K resolutions. Certified models have been independently tested and verified to meet the performance requirements set by the HDBaseT Alliance. The range of certified Extron products allows AV installers to select the AV components that are best suited for system requirements, with the confidence that those units meet HDBaseT standards and will work with other certified products. Extron has added HDBaseT compatibility to a growing number of DTP products, including DTP transmitters, distribution amplifiers, scalers, switchers and matrix switchers.
The DTP Systems product family includes numerous different extender models in a wide variety of form factors and video formats, plus a broad offering of distribution amplifiers, switchers and matrix switchers with essential AV signal processing and control features. DTP Systems allow complete flexibility in designing systems precisely to application and budget requirements.
Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Stewart Filmscreen Takes Aim at Install Market with Non-Tensioned Motorized ElectriScreens Designed for Boardrooms, Classrooms and HOW Stewart Filmscreen’s new line of Cima NT non-tensioned motorized projector screens will launch at InfoComm 2015 next week. Stewart says the new Cima NT above- or below-ceiling ElectriScreen models deliver the durability, image quality and aesthetics that Stewart is known far but at more competitive, budget-friendly price points.
Designed and manufactured in the USA by Stewart Filmscreen and available in standard sizes and aspect ratios from 92 to 164 inches (diagonal), Cima NT ElectriScreens are designed for boardrooms, classrooms, and houses of worship.
The Cima NT AC ElectriScreen is a non-tensioned above ceiling ElectriScreen, whereas the Cima NT BC ElectriScreen is a non-tensioned below ceiling ElectriScreen. All Cima NT models feature Stewart’s proprietary adjustable black drop. Every screen will include additional black masking that can be reset at the job site. This makes specification much simpler.
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Revolabs Expands Line of Elite Wired MicrophonesRevolabs today announced the addition of gooseneck microphones to its line of Elite wired microphones. In addition, the full line of wired microphones is now available with mute functionality and status LEDs.
Available in six and 12 inches, the goosenecks come in the same colors — black, white, and brushed nickel — as the company’s directional and omnidirectional wired microphones. The wired microphones are now also available with mute functionality and bicolor status LEDs, which can be managed locally on the microphone or via a connected DSP. With Revolabs, it is now possible to have the same user interface in rooms with wireless microphones and rooms where budget limitations call for wired microphones while keeping the look and functionality of the microphones the same. Compatible with any universal microphone input connection, the microphones allow users to connect instantly to today’s wide array of conference room appliances.
Consisting of omnidirectional tabletop, directional tabletop, and gooseneck models, Revolabs’ Elite wired microphones bring state-of-the-art sound capture to any conferencing or UC application. As a result, participants experience exceptional audio quality that is resistant to GSM noise, in addition to an unmatched signal-to-noise ratio and supported frequency range that creates a best-of-breed audio capture experience for any contemporary meeting space. The products also let integrators easily increase the maximum number of microphones available within a single space while combining wireless flexibility with the security of the wired microphones.
The new Elite wired gooseneck microphones and tabletop microphones with mute functionality and LEDs will begin shipping July 2015. All the details are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Ships Full-Range of SpeedMount Speaker System for Suspended CeilingsExtron is shipping the CS 123T SpeedMount Ceiling Speaker System, a patented low profile, plenum rated two-piece speaker system. It provides a wide 165° conical dispersion for flexibility in speaker spacing. The system is designed for applications where high intelligibility and maximum coverage is desired in paging applications and low ceiling installations. The innovative system consists of the CS 120P plenum rated enclosure and a CS 3T full-range speaker cartridge. The enclosure installs quickly into 2’x2′ (600×600 millimeter) suspended ceilings. The speaker cartridge features a 3″ full-range driver, and can be used in 70/100 volt or 8 ohm operation. The CS 123T is available as a complete assembly, or the CS 120P and CS 3T can be purchased separately to accommodate division-of-labor installations.
The CS 123T is available as a complete assembly including a pair of CS 120P enclosures and a pair of CS 3T full-range speaker cartridges. The enclosures and speaker cartridges can also be purchased in pairs separately, so they can be delivered to low-voltage and AV system contractors.
The CS 120P plenum enclosure installs quickly into 2’x2′ or metric 600×600 millimeter suspended ceiling grids. It features a shallow 5″ (12.7 centimeter) profile, which simplifies installation into congested ceiling spaces around piping and ducts. The integrated tile bridge of the enclosure rests on the ceiling tile above the grid, evenly distributing the weight of the CS 120P and the CS 3T speaker cartridge. This avoids the need to assemble V-rails and C-rings, greatly reducing the number of installation steps and the chances of losing installation hardware.
The CS 3T speaker cartridge features a 3″ (7.6 centimeter) full-range driver, and can be used in 70/100 volt or 8 ohm operation with a behind-the-grille, six position power selector switch. The cartridge installs quickly and easily into the CS 120P enclosure. The CS 3T delivers full-range audio reproduction and a wide conical dispersion of 165 degrees for vocal clarity and broad coverage. The CS 3T is optimized for voice reproduction and paging applications. It features a power rating of 16 watts continuous pink noise and 32 watts continuous program capacity. The CS 3T features a magnetically attached grille and a thin-edged bezel for a refined appearance on the ceiling.
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InFocus LightCast Technology in Collaboration Solutions Enables Wireless Device Display and eWhiteboarding InFocus Corporation today introduced its LightCast technology, which they say enables BYOD connectivity and all-in-one digital whiteboarding and Internet browsing. The company is also launching its first device with the new technology built in, the interactive touchscreen JTouch with LightCast (INF6501c).
InFocus’ LightCast technology allows people to wirelessly cast content from their Windows, Apple OSX and iOS, and Android devices to a display screen or projector. LightCast devices also offer whiteboard tools, which let users draw, highlight, annotate and capture notes that they can share with anyone via email. Rounding out LightCast’s functionality is a Web browser to enable Internet access without being connected to a separate device.
To showcase the new technology, InFocus is simultaneously announcing a new interactive display, the 65-inch JTouch with LightCast (INF6501c). InFocus based this five-point touch display on the popular InFocus JTouch display platform, which connects with Windows, Macs and Chromebooks and provides a bright, colorful touch experience that engages audiences and combines interactivity with affordability. With LightCast embedded, JTouch becomes an even more powerful, interactive tool enabling a myriad of options for enhanced collaboration and learning. With LightCast-enabled devices, users can save and share lessons as well as use them again for subsequent classes. This advanced note taking is tangible in business applications as well, with LightCast allowing immediate access to web resources which improves meeting efficiency.
InFocus JTouch with LightCast supports edge-to-edge IR touch and Windows 7/8 gestures. It offers integrated stereo speakers for 20W stereo sound along with incredible connectivity including four front-facing USB ports for instant access as well as four HDMI ports, DVI, VGA (HD15 VESA), four USB Type-A, 3.5mm stereo audio in, 3.5mm stereo audio out, USB Type-B port for touch screen control.
InFocus LightCast technology is also built into the just-released Mondopad 2.0 collaboration system. Using Mondopad’s new casting feature one can now connect and display from almost any device for additional idea sharing. While casting to Mondopad, users can also annotate on the display, taking interaction to the next level.
InFocus will include LightCast technology in more products launching later this year, including InFocus projectors and interactive displays.
The JTouch with LightCast is available directly from InFocus here and from InFocus resellers for $3,299 list ($2,399 for K-12 schools). Leave a Comment
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Media Vision Offers TAIDEN’s HCS-4851 Retractable Microphone ArrayThe new digital conference microphone by TAIDEN is designed for integrators and end users that want to hide all meeting technology solutions when not in use. The HCS-4851 is a flush-mount unit with a retractable line array microphone and microphone activation button. A cover plate hides all electronics when the microphone is fully retracted.
When taken out for usage, the TAIDEN HCS-4851 microphone array has a total length of 20 centimeters (7.9 inches) with a 30-degree lean angle; the microphone placement offers proximity to the sound source while using the advanced physical characteristics of a microphone array ensuring excellent pick-up of the human voice and rejecting ambient noise from above and below the microphone.
The HCS-4851 digital conference microphone is compatible with all other wired tabletop and flush-mount digital conference systems by TAIDEN. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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DVIGear Introduces DisplayNetDVIGear is launching something called DisplayNet at InfoComm 2015. DVIGear describes DisplayNet as “AV distribution that uses off-the-shelf 10GbE Ethernet technology to switch, extend and distribute AV signals.”
The transmitter (DN-100TX) accepts multiple signals such as HDMI (with embedded audio and HDCP), analog stereo audio, bidirectional IR, RS232, and 1GbE and transmits them over a 10GbE link up to 328 feet. (100 meters) using a single Cat6a or Cat7 cable. This link is then distributed via an off-the-shelf 10GbE network switch to the receiver unit (DN-100RX), which provides all the signals for output at the destination.
DVIGear says it supports uncompressed video up to 4K/30p (4:4:4) and 4K/60p (4:2:0) with no artifacts and zero frame latency. Video signals may be simultaneously routed in Point-to-Point, Matrix Switching, Video Wall and MultiViewer (coming 2016) modes all in the same system. For more flexibility, each signal type (Video, Audio, IR, RS-232, etc.) is treated as a separate switching layer that can be routed independently. The DN-100 Series includes control software and APIs to enable these units to be integrated into new or existing systems. The DN-100 Series transmitter and receiver will begin shipping September 2015 at a suggested retail price of less than $1,000 per endpoint.
DVIGear is here. Leave a Comment
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Aurora Ships QXT-700 Control PanelAurora is now shipping the QXT-700 7-inch HD control panel — a 1280×800 touch screen for their control system. Powered by a quad-core processor with a PoE-enabled 1-Gbps LAN port, multiple on-board RS-232/IR/relay ports, and DIO, the QXT-700 is designed for any conference room, classroom or hospitality A/V control application.
Designed for integration with smartphones and tablets, the platform-agnostic QXT-700 features a built-in Web server for Apple, Android, and Microsoft devices — with no apps or license fees required. A new Android version is in development that will allow users to incorporate Android-based apps from other A/V manufacturers and run them seamlessly within the QXT-700, allowing users to have the best of both worlds with streamlined programming.
The all-in-one control panel features stereo speakers, stereo digital microphones, a light sensor, proximity, and IR learner. The unit mounts onto any surface with a standard two-gang low-voltage box. The QXT-700 lists for $1799 and all the specs are here. Leave a Comment
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Extron Intros New 4K Presentation Matrix Switcher with Seamless SwitchingExtron has launched a new DTP CrossPoint 108 4K presentation matrix switcher. The DTP CrossPoint 108 4K includes a 10×8 matrix switcher with 4K inputs and outputs, four built-in 4K scalers (powered by Extron Vector 4K scaling technology) seamless switching and logo insertion, integrated DTP and XTP signal extension, audio DSP and AEC capabilities, a mono or stereo amplifier and an advanced control processor that is expandable.
The DTP CrossPoint 108 4K can immediately be integrated with the latest 4K sources and displays. Four built-in Vector 4K scalers are paired to the DTP outputs and enable independent scaling up to 4K. Extron says their new Vector 4K scaling engine is specifically designed with best-in-class image upscaling and downscaling, with 30-bit processing (most are 10-bit at best). The DTP twisted pair inputs and outputs provide flexibility in distributing AV and control. They can be used to connect to any display with an HDBaseT input, or tie into a centralized, facility-wide XTP System to add local room-based AV systems. Customize scaled outputs using the professional source transitions that are available, or insert a custom logo into the background or foreground.
The integrated audio DSP technology features all of the audio processing tools and capabilities of a fully equipped, professional outboard DSP (like the Extron DMP 128). The DTP CrossPoint 108 4K also includes four independent channels of high performance AEC for conferencing applications. A unique digital audio expansion port links the internal DSP to a DMP 128 for expanded I/O capacity to support additional microphones or speaker destinations. Additionally, the built-in mono or stereo 100 watt amplifier features the same Extron core technologies found in the renowned ENERGY STAR qualified XTRA Series, delivering high energy efficiency and professional grade audio performance.
DTP CrossPoint 108 4K IPCP models feature an integrated Extron IP Link Pro control processor, with the advanced features, processing power, and breakthrough technologies found in the standalone Extron IPCP Pro 350 control processor. This allows for complete, customizable control of an entire AV system. The purchase of an Extron LinkLicense with the DTP CrossPoint 108 4K IPCP allows a tablet or laptop to serve as the primary control interface for the AV system.
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Biamp Systems Introduces the Oreno SuiteBiamp Systems today unveiled its all-new Oreno platform — one of the products featured on our InfoComm TOP 10 TOUR. Created specifically for conferencing environments, the system has the ability to control any Biamp Tesira — equipped conference room via mobile devices. Designed to simplify the complexity of conference room setups, the Oreno suite is comprised of three core components: Oreno Creator, Oreno Manager and the Oreno User Interface (UI).
Ideal for standalone or multi-room conference settings using Tesira or TesiraFORTÉ, the Oreno suite allows participants to lock access to specific conference rooms during a meeting, place calls, and recall presets from Web-enabled devices.
To expedite the creation of the user interface, the Oreno Creator tool provides a simple UI builder, which uses drag-and-drop tools and pre-built templates. This allows for end user customization, while eliminating the need for complex programming. The Oreno Manager allows control to be passed to the end user. Deployed onsite on a Windows PC or virtual machine, Oreno Manager provides systems administration tools and network management capabilities. Running in the browser of Web-enabled devices, the Oreno UI provides complete mobile control of a room’s audio functions without the need for any software to be installed on the user’s personal device — creating a flawless conferencing experience for any meeting participant. Biamp engaged Blink UX to help create a world class meeting room experience. Blink UX — a leading User Experience Research and Design Firm — helped Biamp design and test the user experience and UI for Oreno.
It will deliver this fall and here are all the tech specs. Leave a Comment
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Revolabs FLX UC 1500 IP and USB Conference Phone with Extension MicrophonesRevolabs today announced that it is now shipping its FLX UC 1500 IP and USB Conference Phone with Extension Microphones. Broadening the company’s UC product family to support larger conference rooms, the innovative device includes two extension microphones to create a wider pickup range, incorporates a high-performance speaker to expand sound capabilities, and provides the ability to bridge VoIP and USB-based calls — creating an all-in-one solution for incredibly clear conferencing.
Equipped with a tweeter and mid-woofer elements, four embedded microphones, two extension microphones, and integrated acoustic echo cancellation, the FLX UC 1500 provides ultra-wideband frequency response to bring spectacular-sounding audio to conference calls, desktop audio, or PC communication tools whether on premise or in the cloud. Designed to integrate easily with any third-party application, the device also features a convenient dialer with a 3.5-inch color display and USB support, which allows users to easily connect the unit to any PC, Mac or Chromebook for use with communication applications such as Skype, Microsoft Lync, Vidyo, WebEx and more.
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FSR’s HuddleVU Offers Adds Features, Offers New Mini-VU ModelFSR’s HuddleVU Collaboration system is designed as a meeting room system where users can share and view their multiple inputs; laptops, tablets, and smart phones, on a single or multiple displays. When FSR’s new DV-MFMV-74 DV PRO — MultiVU — Seven Input Multi-Format Windowing Scaler is integrated with the HuddleVU FLEX System. it creates a seven-input/user system that has a windowing 4Kx2K output with seamless switching and easy integration with all HuddleVU Collaboration Furniture.
The HuddleVU’s switcher line is rounded out with the availability of collaboration solutions where only two inputs are needed. FSR’s new DV-HSW-21A 2×1 HDMI switcher and the DV-MFSW-21A is a HDMI + VGA & Audio to HDMI switcher integrate with one FSR T3 table box for small collaboration or huddle kiosk-type solutions. To compliment these new smaller offerings, FSR is proud to now offer the Mini-VU Small Group Collaboration Table for two to four users/inputs while the larger tables are built to accommodate 4, 5, 6 or 7 users/inputs. All tables are available in counter or table height and can be used with or without the vertical back panel for mounting displays. The Mini-VU is crafted furniture designed for collaboration, functionality, and form. If time is a concern, stock models are available, or a furniture finish from the Wilsonart Line of Quality laminates can be chosen for a custom table.
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Powersoft Unveils Its Ottocanali Series Amplifiers at InfoCommAudio manufacturer Powersoft announced the expansion of the successful Ottocanali Series, with the addition of three new high-performance eight-channel power amplifiers — under the series Ottocanali DSP+D. The Ottocanali Series DSP+D offers a wide range of system control and monitoring functions as well as sound shaping options, a total of up to 12,000 W output power at 4 ohms over 8 channels for lo-Z or distributed line systems — all packed into a double rack unit.
As with former versions of Ottocanali, the new DSP+D versions feature switchable main and aux signal inputs per channel, adequate GPIO, alarms, Lo-Z and Hi-Z output connections as well as mono-bridgeable channel pairs. These 2 RU models implement two redundant universal switch mode power supplies with PFC (Power Factor Correction) and patented SRM (Smart Rails Management) technology that maximize the efficiency of the system, while drastically reducing power consumption.
With two redundant Dante by Audinate digital streams, the Ottocanali 4K4 DSP+D, Ottocanali 8K4 DSP+D and Ottocanali 12K4 DSP+D will fit any venue as a stand-alone unit, making it ideal for multi-zone applications in mid to large-scale installs.
The DSP features of the Ottocanali DSP+D make these amplifiers ideal to seamlessly integrate into any installed sound or touring environment. In just two rack unit spaces, the design features a fully configurable input / output non-boolean matrix, with state of the art DSP. Also, since the Ottocanali DSP+D features dual redundant power supplies — claiming it as an industry first.
The new Ottocanali DSP+D system is fully compatible with Powersoft’s innovative Armonia Pro Audio Suite, making it easy to facilitate online or offline system set up and tuning. The Armonia platform also enables users to quickly and conveniently manipulate advanced DSP features of the system, such matrix / speaker routing and redundancy priorities, while managing and monitoring all vital functions in real-time from a remote PC via a single intuitive GUI.
All the details on the Powersoft Ottocanali DSP+D series are here. Leave a Comment
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AMX and Microsoft Announce Partnership to Integrate Surface Hub with AMX Meeting Room Control Ecosystem
At InfoComm, Microsoft and AMX announced that they have entered into a partnership to integrate Microsoft’s Surface Hub collaboration system with AMX control.
Microsoft Surface Hub is a collaboration system that features a Windows 10-based 55″ HD or 84″ 4K display serving as a focal point for typical activities that take place during a collaboration session. Surface Hub leverages its large display to deliver applications for white boarding, content sharing and presenting, as well as running conferencing applications like Skype or Lync to easily incorporate remote participants into the meeting. Surface Hub also includes multi-touch and multi-pen capabilities that recognize up to 100 touch points with precision, allowing natural human interaction with the display for white boarding, free-flow ink drawing and execution of apps.
AMX solutions include user interfaces for managing the room technology, switching and control systems for distributing audio and video content during meetings, digital signage systems for distributing information throughout an enterprise; and software solutions that simplify the configuration, monitoring and maintenance of AV systems.
AMX is incorporating Surface Hub into its Rapid Project Maker (RPM) software. Using RPM, customers can easily set up these new rooms to be monitored and maintained in real time over the IT network with AMX’s Resource Management Suite (RMS) software.
Before people start to use the rooms for meetings, they will need a system for locating and booking available conference rooms. By integrating Surface hub with RMS, organizations can augment Surface Hub’s native calendaring and scheduling functions by placing scheduling panels directly outside the room, thereby allowing employees to instantly locate and reserve an available meeting space. RMS will also enable IT organizations to remotely monitor equipment usage, troubleshoot performance issues and remotely power down equipment in order to save energy.
More details about the partnership are here. Leave a Comment
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Marshall Enters Unified Communications Market with New Broadcast PTZ CameraMarshall Electronics has announced the new CV620-PT is a PTZ conference camera with HD video, 20x optical zoom flexibility, easy remote control protocols and versatile outputs. Designed for corporate video conferencing, connected classrooms, lecture halls, medical facilities, houses of worship, studio broadcast, corporate meetings and event spaces, the camera has 20x (4.7 – 94 millimeter) optical zoom, smooth pan-tilt operation and precision auto-focus provides a high level of flexibility and RS422/RS232 remote controllable protocols.
The CV620-PT is controllable via local IR remote, at great distances with RS422/RS232 connected control boards, or easy RS232 to USB Windows based program. The camera can be mounted on tables or flat surfaces, but also comes with a wall/ceiling mount where images can be flipped to any observable angle.
Key features:
- 1/2.8″ 2 megapixel sensor
- 20x optical zoom AF (4.7-94mm, F1.6-3.5)
- Precision Auto/Manual Focus
- Full-HD: 1920x1080p — 1920x1080i or 1280x720p
- Fast framerates: 60, 59.94, 50, 30, 29.97, 25fps
- HDSDI(3G), DVI (HDMI), VGA, Composite
- RS422/RS232 Auto-Detect PTZ Control from RCP
- Pan range: 340°; – tilt range: 120°
The CV620-PT Broadcast PTZ Conference Camera will be released this month, listing for $2,995. Here are the details. Leave a Comment
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Listen Technologies Announces New Infrared Language Distribution SystemListen Technologies announced today another IR system in its line of ListenIR solutions. Following the introduction of iDSP IR and the new LT-84 Transmitter/Radiator combo earlier this year — an IR system that revolutionized the approach for a variety of venues — Listen Technologies debuts the new Infrared Language Distribution system. Engineered to be easy to set up, install and use, it saves both time and space to get multilingual language environments up and running faster than ever.
ListenIR Language Distribution System key features:
- Compliant to IEC 61603-7 and IEC 60914 standards
- Audio input via Dante interface
- Small and compact, designed for 1RU space
- Web Browser set-up with mobile tablet application
- Auto delay compensation built in
- Radiator is two-thirds the size of similar powered devices
- Lithium Ion, reliable battery technology for receivers
- Drag and drop signal/channel configuration
- 32-channel standard compatible use but can expand up to 40 channels
All ListenIR solutions are designed for quick and easy installation and maintenance. IR products are ideal for assistive listening and language interpretation in boardrooms, courtrooms, or other environments where privacy is important. From small to large venues, Listen Technologies’ systems are built to fit any need in a wide variety of applications. With exceptional coverage, ListenIR is truly the best solution.
The ListenIR Infrared Language Distribution System will be available Q4 2015 with pricing TBA. Details will be here. Leave a Comment
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Biamp Systems Expands Vocia Paging System CapabilitiesBiamp Systems today announced the release of Vocia 1.7 public address and evacuation system. With its decentralized architecture, Vocia is designed with no single point of system failure for reliable public address and paging applications in healthcare, corporate office, convention space and high-volume transportation environments.
Vocia 1.7 is equipped with new 2RU amplifiers, passive end-of-line monitoring devices (PLDs) supporting a wide range of speakers, as well as enhancements such as live inter-world paging, increased recorded message times of up to 30 minutes, and the flexibility to have multiple Life Safety Interface (LSI-16) devices per world.
The four-channel VA-4300CV and eight-channel VA-8150CV digital networked amplifiers provide power levels of 300 or 150 watts-per-channel respectively, delivering continuous audio power at the wattage needed. The 2RU amplifiers come equipped with comprehensive failover capabilities, including device-to-device and channel-to-channel failover.
Incorporating the newest Vocia Message Server (MS-1e), Vocia 1.7 also provides improved message playback, event scheduling, a VoIP paging interface, email reporting, logging capabilities and remote system access. The Text-to-Speech Servers (TTS-1e and TTS-1nce) are networked text-to-speech engines that support the creation of browser-based announcements. TTS-1 devices use Ethernet-based control protocols within a Vocia system to construct a variety of announcements using a set of user-defined templates.
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Hitachi Debuts CP-TW2505 and CP-TW3005 LCD ProjectorsHitachi today introduced its CP-TW2505 and CP-TW3005 LCD interactive projectors — both with 10,000:1 contrast ratio and aimed at K-12, higher education and corporate users. The Interactive Pen and multiple pen capability allow the use of interactive pens (two are supplied) to write, draw, point, navigate and more. In addition, an available FT-01 Finger Touch Module enables finger-touch interactivity.
The CP-TW2505 and CP-TW3005 ultra-short-throw lens enables it to project images up to 100 inches diagonal from a compact design that fits easily onto a tabletop or can also be wall-mounted. The 3LCD projectors offer WXGA 1280×800 resolution with a 10,000:1 contrast ratio, up to 10,000 hour lamp life (Eco-2 mode) and 2,700 ANSI lumens brightness (CP-TW2505) or 3,300 ANSI lumens brightness with up to 6,000 hour lamp life in Eco-2 mode (CP-TW3005). Both now include an embedded CPU for improved processing time for interactive functions. Hitachi’s Accentualizer technology delivers high-resolution images with vivid colors and bold, crisp text and graphics and the exclusive High Dynamic Contrast Range (HDCR) setting yields clear images even in bright rooms.
Each Hitachi interactive projector comes with Hitachi’s world-class interactive StarBoard Software, the new standard in collaboration, information sharing and dynamic interactive presentation software. With a customizable interface and toolbar, StarBoard streamlines your workflow and improves production. Hitachi bundles this as a standard feature with each interactive projector, there is no yearly subscription fee. Additionally, Hitachi interactive projectors are compatible with other top interactive software.
Content can be delivered via a wired or wireless connection (using an optional available wireless adapter) from a computer, USB stick, A/V source or even a smartphone or mobile device — Hitachi’s Projector Quick Connection app offers full projector control and lets the CP-TW2505 and CP-TW3005 display photos, document files and websites from iPad, iPhone and Android devices.
The projector’s A/V connections include two HDMI inputs, a computer video in and video in/monitor out port, a composite video input and audio inputs and outputs. Its RJ-45 port facilitates networking capability and enables the CP-TW2505 and CP-TW3005 to be remotely controlled via LAN. USB Type A and USB Type B ports, a microphone input and an RS232C control port are also provided.
The numerous performance and convenience functions include Powered Focus and Perfect Fit 2 digital image correction to automatically optimize image quality, a Template function that makes writing on a whiteboard much easier, built-in speakers with a 16-watt audio output and much more. An optional tabletop stand allows the CP-TW2505 and CP-TW3005 to project images directly onto a tabletop, making it ideal for small-group presentations or in rooms with limited space. The projector’s ImageCare technology and Intelligent Eco and Saver modes automatically control the brightness of the lamp according to the brightness level of the screen and other factors, yielding maximum energy savings.
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AMX Intros New HydraPort Touch
At InfoComm, AMX launched the AMX HydraPort Touch — combining an AMX HydraPort with an ultra-slim AMX Modero S Series Touch Panel. The touch panel folds to hide into tables and accepts the MyTurn Source Selectors.
The new HydraPort Touch integrates a HydraPort chassis with a 10″ or 7″ Modero S Touch Panel and, when closed, the unit sits flush with the table top. Connector modules include:
- USB 3.0
- A 4K@60 HDMI, DisplayPort, and Mini DisplayPort
- Cat6 Ethernet
- VGA
HydraPort uses AMX’s new MyTurn Source Selector solution. Press a MyTurn button and meeting participants are able to switch the display to show their source content. And, the MyTurn solution can be scaled to up to eight simultaneous users supported with each receiver deployed. When used with an AMX Solecis Digital Switcher, MyTurn offers a simple switching solution that can be implemented with no programming. All of the new HydraPort RCMs and standalone cables are MyTurn-ready.
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Crestron Expands DigitalMedia With Three New 4K Presentation SwitchersCrestron is demonstrating three 4K presentation switchers that they say can be set up in just minutes without any custom programming: the HD-MD8X1-4K 4K Scaling Presentation Switcher, the DM-MD8X1-4K-C 4K Scaling Presentation Switcher with HDBaseT Output, DMPS3-4K-150-C 3-Series 4K DigitalMedia Presentation System 150.
Based on the DMP3-4K-150-C, the HD-MD8X1-4K provides up to eight inputs and has a built-in 4K scaler can convert any resolution to any other resolution, up to 4096×2160.
The 4K Scaling Presentation Switcher with HDBaseT Output (DM-MD8X1-4K-C) has the features of the HD-MD8X1-4K, plus a mic input and a DM output, so HDBaseT can be run to the room display. It’s the perfect fit for rooms larger than a huddle space.
The DMPS3-4K-150-C is designed for classrooms, small and medium conference rooms as well as and huddle spaces. It adds a 3-Series Control System and two DM inputs for a 10×1 4K switching solution, and can be used with either .AV Framework or SIMPL Windows for custom programming.
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Extron Ships Five MediaLink Plus Controllers with Ethernet Device Control and PoEExtron has shipped five new MediaLink Plus controllers including the MLC Plus 50, MLC Plus 100, and MLC Plus 200 — all three Ethernet controllers with beveled edges, rounded corners and backlit buttons. While the MLC Plus 50 features backlit Up and Down volume buttons, the MLC Plus 100 and MLC Plus 200 models feature a multi-function volume knob for smooth, precise control of select Extron amplifiers, ProDSP-equipped Extron products, and a wide range of audio devices. As part of the MediaLink Plus Series, all of these controllers are loaded with features and enhanced security, making them ideal for handling common AV functions such as display on/off, input switching, volume, and Ethernet control of AV devices. The faceplates hide the mounting screws giving the controllers a refined, uncluttered appearance. Power over Ethernet allows the controllers to receive power and communications over a single Ethernet cable. The MLC Plus 100 and MLC Plus 200 are also available in AAP versions, providing openings for up to four single-space Architectural Adapter Plates for numerous connectivity possibilities.
All of these new MediaLink Plus controllers are configured using Extron Global Configurator Plus or Global Configurator Professional software. They also integrate seamlessly with Extron’s award-winning GlobalViewer Enterprise software for complete AV resource monitoring, management, and control over a computer network. The MediaLink Plus family of controllers supports popular Web browsers and the Extron Control App.
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Panasonic Debuts 4K Projector That’s Really 5KPanasonic just introduced at InfoComm the PT-DZ21KU, the company’s first beyond 4K screen resolution projector. The PT-DZ21KU projector was shown performing image projection mapping onto a Tesla Model S (here’s the video we shot of it at InfoComm).
The PT-DZ21KU 4K+ Projector With 4K+ screen resolution (5,120×3,200) and Quad Pixel Drive technology and they say it is the most compact and lightweight 4K+ 3-chip DLP laser projector in the world. The projector is spec’d at 10,000 lumens of brightness and a contrast ratio of 20,000:1 using laser light. The projector’s pixel is shifted both horizontally and vertically at a high frame rate of 240 Hz, physically creating four different pixels from a single pixel, effectively quadrupling the pixel density of the image. To optimize for fluid, detailed, high-contrast images, the PT-DZ21KU leverages what they call a Detail Clarity Processor that analyzes pixel information. The new projector is spec’d at 20,000-hour light-source life. Providing system and installation flexibility, the Multi-Screen Support System allows screens to seamlessly join with edge blending, color matching and digital image enlarging. In addition, the PT-DZ21KU uses DIGITAL LINK — based on HDBaseT technology — that reduces cost and complexity of installation by allowing transmission of HD video, audio and control commands through a single CAT5e cable.
The PT-DZ21KU is aimed for a wide variety of applications including rental and staging, auditorium, museum, control room, and house of worship. The PT-DZ21KU will be available in the fall of 2015.
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Extron Ships NetPA Compact Audio Power Amplifiers with DanteExtron has announced the availability of the Extron NetPA 502 AT and NetPA 1001‑70V AT, half rack 1U, convection cooled power amplifiers equipped with Dante digital audio networking. The NetPA 502 AT delivers two channels of 50 watts into 4 ohms, and the NetPA 1001‑70V AT provides a single channel of 100 watts at 70 volts. NetPA amplifiers receive audio from Dante-enabled devices over a standard local area network, allowing for decentralized distribution of audio throughout a building. In addition to amplifying incoming Dante audio, NetPA amplifiers feature line level outputs that can simultaneously feed an additional speaker zone or audio system. They feature an advanced Class D amplifier design, plus patented CDRS – Class D Ripple Suppression that they say provides improved signal fidelity over conventional Class D amplifiers.
The NetPA 502 AT and NetPA 1001-70V AT are professional grade amplifiers, featuring greater than 90 dB signal-to-noise ratio and less than 0.1 percent THD+N. The amplifiers have recessed, detented level controls located on the rear panel that facilitate adjustment of audio system gain structure, or setting an individual level for each zone. They also have an ultra low inrush current draw to prevent power circuit overload that occurs when multiple amplifiers are switched on simultaneously. This feature eliminates the need for power sequencing in systems with multiple amplifiers in large centralized equipment racks, and prevents other equipment from experiencing power interruption from associated power surges.
A network of Extron Dante-enabled products, including the NetPA amplifiers, can be set up using Dante Controller software as well as DSP Configurator Software. Dante Controller is used to easily assign an output from a Dante-equipped digital signal processor, such as the Extron DMP 128 AT, to an input on a NetPA amplifier.
Go here for all the specs. Leave a Comment
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EIKI Debuts 14K Lumen Projector EIKI has just launched its brightest projector yet, the 14K-lumen 3-chip DLP-based EIP-UJT100. The EIP-UJT100 is spec’d to have a 2,000:1 contrast ratio, is native WUXGA 1920×1200 resolution, has four digital video inputs including HDMI, DIsplayPort and HDBaseT as well as 3G HD-SDI and has a Dicom Simulation mode for viewing grayscale images such as X-rays.
In addition, the EIP-UJT100 includes built-in edge blending and image warping as well as corner keystone correction and allows for dual-projection via picture in picture and picture by picture modes. Optional lens cover a range of 0.67 to 6.96:1 throw ratios and it weighs 81-pounds with the lens.
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For all you REGULAR readers of rAVe ProAV Edition out there, hopefully you enjoyed another opinion-packed issue!
For those of you NEW to rAVe, you just read how we are — we are 100 percent opinionated. We not only report the news and new product stories of the ProAV industry, but we stuff the articles full of our opinions. That may include (but is not limited to) whether or not the product is even worth looking at, challenging the manufacturers on their specifications, calling a marketing-spec bluff and suggesting ways integrators market their products better. But, one thing is for sure, we are NOT a trade publication that gets paid for running editorial or product stories. Traditional trade publications get paid to run product stories — that’s why you see what you see in most of the pubs out there. We are different: we run what we want to run and NO ONE is going to pay us to write anything good (or bad).
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To send me feedback, don’t reply to this newsletter. Instead, write directly to me at gary@ravepubs.com or for editorial ideas, Editor-in-Chief Sara Abrons at sara@ravepubs.com
A little about me: I graduated from Journalism School at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (where I am adjunct faculty). I’ve been in the AV-industry since 1987 where I started with Extron and eventually moved to AMX. So, I guess I am an industry veteran (although I don’t think I am that old). I have been an opinionated columnist for a number of industry publications and in the late 1990s I started the widely read KNews eNewsletter (the first in the AV market) and also created the model for and was co-founder of AV Avenue, which is now known as InfoComm IQ. rAVe [Publications] has been around since 2003, when we launched our original newsletter, rAVe ProAV Edition.
Everything we publish is Opt-in — we spam NO ONE! rAVe ProAV Edition is our flagship ePublication with what we believe is a reach of virtually everyone in the ProAV market. rAVe HomeAV Edition, co-published with CEDIA and launched in February 2004, is, by far, the largest ePub in the HomeAV market. We added rAVe Rental [and Staging] in November 2007, rAVe ED [Education] in May 2008 and then rAVe DS [Digital Signage] in January 2009. We added rAVe GHGav [Green, Healthcare & Government AV] in August 2010 and rAVe HOW [House of Worship] in July 2012. You can subscribe to any of those publication or see ALL our archives by going to: https://www.ravepubs.com
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Copyright 2015 – rAVe [Publications] – All rights reserved – All rights reserved. For reprint policies, contact rAVe [Publications], 210 Old Barn Ln. – Chapel Hill, NC 27517 – (919) 969-7501. Email: Sara@rAVePubs.com |
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